1. Get Ready for the Holidays with Sparkling Hair
The holiday season is the perfect excuse to go all out with glamorous, festive hairstyles that turn heads at every party. Whether it’s an elegant updo for a formal gathering or voluminous waves for a cozy celebration, the right hairstyle can elevate your holiday look and make you feel confident and radiant.
One of the best ways to enhance your holiday hairstyle is with hair extensions. They instantly add volume, length, and fullness, making it easier to achieve those dramatic, show-stopping styles. From sleek ponytails to cascading curls, extensions give you the versatility to experiment with different festive looks without commitment.
In this article, we’ll explore 5+ stunning holiday hairstyles that are perfect for any celebration. You’ll find expert styling tips, step-by-step guides, and advice on incorporating extensions for maximum impact. Whether you’re aiming for a chic and sophisticated look or something playful and bold, these styles will ensure your hair sparkles as much as the holiday lights!
2. Soft Hollywood Waves: Glamour That Never Goes Out of Style
Hollywood waves are the epitome of old-school glamour and sophistication, making them the perfect hairstyle for a festive, red-carpet-inspired look. Whether you’re attending a glamorous holiday party or celebrating a special occasion, this timeless hairstyle adds instant elegance and class to any outfit. With their soft, voluminous curls, Hollywood waves exude luxury and poise, ensuring you stand out with a stunning, polished finish.
Creating the Perfect Hollywood Waves
To achieve this iconic look, start by sectioning your hair into manageable parts. Using a curling iron or wand with a medium-sized barrel (around 1 to 1.5 inches), wrap each section of hair around the barrel. For that classic “S” shape, curl your hair in alternating directions – some sections towards the face and others away from it. This technique ensures the waves are soft and natural-looking rather than uniform curls. After curling, allow the hair to cool before gently brushing through the waves with a wide-toothed comb or your fingers for that smooth, flawless finish.
Adding Volume with Clip-In Extensions
If you want your Hollywood waves to truly shine, clip-in extensions are your secret weapon. Extensions not only add length but also give your waves the extra volume they need for that dramatic, red-carpet look. Simply blend the extensions into your natural hair, starting at the roots, and curl as you normally would. The result will be fuller, longer waves with a touch of added glamour that lasts all night. Make sure to choose extensions in a shade that matches your natural color or adds subtle highlights to complement your festive look.
Sparkle Touch: Adding Rhinestone Accessories
To elevate your Hollywood waves even further, consider adding some sparkle with rhinestone pins or a glittering headband. These accessories can be placed along the side of your waves or near the crown of your head, adding a festive, eye-catching detail that’s perfect for the holidays. Whether you choose a delicate headband or bold rhinestone clips, these touches will give your waves a sparkling finish, making you the center of attention at any holiday gathering.
Pro Tip: Keeping Waves Smooth and Frizz-Free
The key to maintaining Hollywood waves throughout the evening is keeping them smooth and frizz-free. To prevent flyaways and maintain the sleek, polished look, use a lightweight anti-frizz serum or shine spray after styling. Be sure to apply the product sparingly, as too much can weigh down your hair. For added hold, use a flexible hairspray to keep the waves in place without making them stiff. If you’re worried about humidity or rain, try using a humidity-resistant hairspray to ensure your waves last all night, no matter the weather.
With these steps and tips, your Hollywood waves will be the ultimate festive hairstyle, exuding sophistication, glamour, and a touch of sparkle that’s perfect for any celebration!
3. The Sleek High Ponytail: Chic and Modern Elegance
A sleek high ponytail is the ultimate combination of modern elegance and practicality, making it a perfect choice for holiday parties. Whether you’re dressing up for a glamorous event or attending a more casual gathering, this hairstyle is versatile enough to suit any occasion. It’s sleek, polished, and effortlessly stylish, offering a refined look while keeping your hair neat and off your face. The best part? It’s easy to style and works for both sophisticated and playful vibes.
Creating the Perfect Sleek High Ponytail
1. Prep Your Hair: Start with clean, dry hair. Apply a smoothing serum or heat protectant to prevent frizz and flyaways. If your hair is naturally frizzy or lacks shine, this is the time to add products that smooth and enhance your hair’s natural texture.
2. Create a Clean Part: Decide on where you want your ponytail to sit, then part your hair neatly in the middle or slightly off-center. Make sure the part is straight and even for a clean look.
3. Smooth Your Hair: Brush your hair thoroughly to remove tangles. For extra smoothness, use a fine-tooth comb to ensure there are no bumps or flyaways as you gather your hair.
4. Tie the Ponytail: Gather your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head. Secure it tightly with an elastic band. For added hold, use a hairspray or gel before tying the ponytail to ensure smoothness.
5. Add Volume: If you want a voluminous look, tease the crown area slightly before pulling the hair back. A little backcombing will help create extra height, adding drama to the ponytail.
Using Extensions for Extra Length and Thickness
For an even more striking look, use clip-in extensions to add extra length and volume to your ponytail. Choose extensions that match your hair color and texture for a seamless blend. Simply clip them in below your natural hair, ensuring that they are hidden securely beneath the top layer. Once clipped in, gather the added hair into the ponytail and smooth out any lumps or bumps. The extensions will give you a fuller, longer ponytail that looks effortlessly chic and luxurious.
Finishing Touches: Adding Festive Accessories
To enhance the festive feel of your high ponytail, add some sparkle with glittery hair ties or a satin ribbon. You can wrap a shiny, metallic ribbon around the base of your ponytail, tying it in a bow for a sophisticated touch. Alternatively, use a decorative hair tie with rhinestones or glitter to make your ponytail stand out even more. These small details will transform a simple hairstyle into something truly eye-catching.
Pro Tip: Keeping Your Ponytail Intact All Night Long
The key to maintaining a sleek high ponytail throughout the evening is ensuring it stays secure and smooth. After tying the ponytail, apply a light mist of hairspray to hold the style in place without weighing it down. If you have fine hair, consider using a clear elastic band that won’t slip, ensuring the ponytail remains intact. For extra smoothness, finish with a shine spray to give your ponytail a glossy, polished look.
For long-lasting volume, try flipping your head upside down before securing the ponytail to add height at the crown. This will give your hair a natural lift that will hold up under any holiday party dancing or mingling.
With these steps, your sleek high ponytail will be the perfect blend of chic elegance and modern sophistication, keeping you looking fabulous all through the holiday season.
4. The Romantic Low Bun: Timeless & Sophisticated
A romantic low bun is the epitome of timeless elegance, making it a perfect choice for holiday gatherings. Whether you’re attending a formal dinner, a family get-together, or a festive party, this style is effortlessly chic, polished, and versatile. It works beautifully with all hair types and textures while keeping your hair neatly in place throughout the night. Plus, its simplicity allows you to accessorize for added glamour.
Creating a Low Bun with a Chic Twist or Sleek Finish
1. Prep Your Hair: Start with clean, dry hair and apply a smoothing serum or lightweight mousse to control frizz. If you want a more textured look, use a texturizing spray for grip and volume.
2. Choose Your Style: Decide whether you want a sleek, polished bun or a soft, romantic version. For a sleek bun, use a fine-tooth comb to smooth your hair back. For a looser, more effortless vibe, allow some face-framing strands to fall naturally.
3. Gather and Secure: Pull your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck and secure it with a strong elastic. To add a chic twist, create a small opening above the elastic and flip the ponytail through before forming the bun.
4. Create the Bun: Wrap the ponytail around the base and pin it securely using bobby pins. If you prefer a more voluminous bun, gently tug at the sides to loosen it for a softer effect.
Using Extensions for a Fuller, More Glamorous Look
If you want to achieve a fuller, more dramatic bun, clip-in extensions can make a huge difference. Attach them near the nape of your neck to blend seamlessly with your natural hair before styling. The added length and volume will make your bun appear thicker and more structured.
For those with fine or short hair, using a bun donut or padding underneath can help create a fuller shape. Simply wrap your hair (with or without extensions) around the donut for an instantly voluminous updo.
Sparkle Touch: Elevate the Look with Accessories
The holiday season is all about adding a touch of sparkle! Enhance your romantic low bun with pearl pins, jeweled barrettes, or a shimmering hair comb for an elegant, festive finish. Position the accessories along the side of the bun or tuck them into the twist for a subtle but stunning effect.
If you prefer a softer, bohemian-inspired look, weave a delicate ribbon or velvet bow into your bun. These details will make your hairstyle stand out and complement any holiday outfit.
Pro Tip: Keeping the Bun Secure and Voluminous
To ensure your bun stays in place all night without looking flat, use strong bobby pins and a flexible-hold hairspray. Crisscross the pins for extra security, and gently tug on sections of the bun to create volume without loosening the structure.
For extra longevity, apply a bit of dry shampoo or texture powder before styling to help grip the hair and keep the bun from slipping. With these steps, your romantic low bun will remain picture-perfect all evening!
5. Glittery Braided Styles: Festive and Playful
Braids are a fantastic choice for holiday parties because they are playful, unique, and can easily incorporate festive elements. Whether you’re going for a classic fishtail, a chic Dutch braid, or a whimsical crown braid, the possibilities are endless for a style that’s both stylish and practical. Plus, braids can hold up all night, even through dancing and mingling. Adding glitter to the mix takes the look to the next level, giving it that perfect holiday sparkle.
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Glittery Fishtail or Dutch Braid
1. Prepare Your Hair:
Start by washing and conditioning your hair to ensure it's smooth and manageable. If your hair tends to be flat, apply a volume-boosting mousse or dry shampoo to add texture and grip.
2. Create the Braid Base:
For a Fishtail Braid: Divide your hair into two equal sections. Take a small piece of hair from the outside of one section and cross it over to the opposite section. Repeat this process, alternating sides, until you reach the ends. Secure the braid with an elastic.
For a Dutch Braid: Divide your hair into three sections. Cross the outer pieces under the middle section rather than over, adding more hair to each strand as you work down your head. Secure with a hair tie once you’ve braided to the nape of your neck.
3. Incorporate Extensions:
For a thicker, fuller braid, clip-in extensions are your best friend. Attach them to your natural hair before braiding to seamlessly blend them in. Clip them near the roots of the hair you plan to braid, and gently comb them through to eliminate tangles. The added length and volume will make your braid appear thicker and more dramatic, giving it a professional, salon-like finish.
Adding Sparkle: Glitter Hairspray or Crystal Clips
Once your braid is complete, it’s time to add some sparkle! You can spray glitter hairspray along the braid for an all-over shimmering effect, or apply a fine mist on the sides to highlight the texture. The sparkle will catch the light beautifully, making your braid the star of the show.
For a more subtle touch of glamour, add crystal clips or jeweled barrettes to the braid. These can be strategically placed at the top of the braid, along the side, or even near the base to catch the light as you move. These festive accessories will elevate your look while keeping the style playful and chic.
Pro Tip: Keep Braids Neat and Voluminous
Braids can sometimes loosen throughout the night, so here’s a pro tip to keep them intact and voluminous: After braiding, gently tug on the sides of the braid to loosen it slightly, giving it a more relaxed and voluminous look. Use bobby pins to secure any loose pieces and keep the braid looking polished.
For extra hold, finish with a flexible-hold hairspray that allows movement but keeps the braid in place. This will ensure your glittery braid stays perfect and festive, no matter how much you dance or mingle throughout the evening!
6. Loose Curls with a Twist: Effortlessly Glamorous
Loose curls with a twist are perfect for achieving a glamorous yet relaxed look, making them an ideal choice for holiday parties. The soft, bouncy curls create a natural, effortless vibe while the twist adds a touch of charm and uniqueness. This hairstyle is ideal for those who want to exude elegance without being overly formal, striking the perfect balance between laid-back and chic.
How to Create Soft, Bouncy Curls and Add a Twist for Extra Charm
1. Prep Your Hair: Start by applying a heat protectant to your hair to shield it from styling tools. Then, give your hair some texture by adding a light mousse or volumizing spray, which will help create bounce in the curls and ensure they last longer.
2. Curling the Hair: Divide your hair into sections to make curling easier. Use a 1-inch curling iron or wand for soft, bouncy curls. Wrap 1-inch sections of hair around the barrel, leaving the ends out for a more relaxed curl. Hold for about 10-15 seconds, then release. Repeat this process until your entire head is curled.
3. Add the Twist: After curling, take a small section of hair from the front of your face and twist it away from your face. Pin it behind your ear with a bobby pin. Repeat this step on the other side for a symmetrical look. The twist adds a unique element, giving the curls a more personalized touch.
Using Extensions for Fullness and Curl Retention
If you have thinner hair or want extra fullness, clip-in extensions are a great way to add volume and length. Adding extensions not only gives your curls more body but also ensures they hold better, especially if your natural hair is fine or doesn’t curl easily. Secure the extensions underneath your natural layers to blend seamlessly and give your curls that extra oomph.
Adding Sparkle: Shimmering Hair Oils or Sprays
To give your curls a glossy, polished finish, use a shimmering hair oil or spray. Apply a small amount to the ends of your hair, or lightly mist it over the curls for a subtle shine. The glittery effect will catch the light and add an elegant touch to your hairstyle.
Pro Tip: How to Ensure Curls Last All Night Without Falling Flat
To make sure your curls last all night without falling flat, finish your style with a flexible-hold hairspray. Lightly spray the curls to hold their shape while still allowing movement. Avoid heavy products that can weigh the curls down. For added volume, gently lift sections of hair at the roots and lightly tease them before styling. This will keep your curls looking full and fresh throughout the evening.
7. The Retro Pin-Up Look: Vintage-Inspired Holiday Glam
The pin-up look is the ultimate choice for holiday parties if you’re aiming for a bold, glamorous, and vintage-inspired style. This classic hairstyle is all about big, voluminous curls, defined rolls, and an air of confidence. It’s the perfect way to channel old Hollywood glamour with a playful twist, making it a standout choice for any festive gathering.
How to Create Retro Curls and Rolls: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Your Hair: Start with freshly washed hair, then apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair to give it texture and hold. Blow-dry your hair with a round brush for volume, or let it air dry for a more natural base.
2. Curl the Hair: Divide your hair into 1-inch sections and use a curling iron with a 1-inch barrel to create tight curls. Curl each section in the same direction to ensure consistency. Hold each curl for 10-15 seconds, then release.
3. Form the Rolls: Once you’ve curled your hair, create rolls by taking the front sections of your hair. Roll them back, creating a smooth, rounded shape at the front of your hairline. Pin each roll in place with bobby pins. You can also add small rolls on the sides for added vintage flair.
4. Set the Curls: For the remaining hair, gather the curls at the back into soft waves or additional rolls, securing them with bobby pins. The look should be voluminous and structured.
Incorporating Extensions to Achieve the Voluminous Pin-Up Style
Pin-up styles are known for their big, full-bodied curls, which often require extra volume. Clip-in extensions are a great way to enhance your look by adding thickness and length. Secure the extensions beneath your natural layers, ensuring they blend seamlessly. This will create the voluminous, volitional curls typical of retro pin-up styles.
Sparkling Accessories: Feathered or Jeweled Headbands for Extra Glam
To elevate your pin-up look, accessorize with a feathered or jeweled headband. Opt for one with rhinestones, pearls, or vintage-inspired designs to add a touch of sparkle and glamour. Placing a headband across your forehead or around the base of your rolls will give the look a festive, high-glam finish.
Pro Tip: Using Strong-Hold Hairspray to Lock the Style in Place
The key to keeping your retro pin-up look intact throughout the night is a strong-hold hairspray. After finishing your rolls and curls, lightly spray your hair with hairspray to set the style. Hold the hairspray at least 10 inches away from your hair to avoid stiffness and ensure that the curls stay bouncy and full all night long.
8. The Messy Updo: Effortlessly Chic & Party-Ready
The messy updo is the ultimate blend of chic and effortless, making it the perfect choice for holiday parties. Whether you're headed to a casual gathering or a more formal celebration, this hairstyle offers the perfect balance of relaxed elegance. It’s a versatile option that can easily transition from a day of errands to a glamorous evening of festivities with minimal effort.
How to Create a Messy Updo with Soft Twists or an Undone Bun
1. Start with Textured Hair: Begin by adding texture to your hair. If you have straight hair, lightly curl or wave it for extra volume. Use a dry shampoo or texturizing spray to give your hair some grip and fullness, making it easier to style.
2. Create Twists or a Loose Bun: For a soft twisted look, take two sections of hair from the front, twist them loosely, and pin them at the back. For a more traditional messy bun, gather your hair into a low ponytail, then twist and wrap it around itself to form a loose bun. Secure with bobby pins, leaving some pieces loose around the face for a relaxed vibe.
3. Loosen the Style: Gently tug on different sections of the bun or twists to loosen them for a more undone, voluminous effect. The goal is to create a lived-in look, so don’t worry about perfect symmetry.
How Extensions Add Fullness and a More Dramatic Effect
Messy updos often look best with added volume and texture. Clip-in extensions are perfect for this, as they help create the fullness and drama necessary for a show-stopping updo. Simply clip the extensions into your hair before you begin styling, focusing on the areas that need the most volume. The extensions will allow you to achieve a more full-bodied, dynamic messy updo that stands out at any party.
Sparkling Accessories: Glitter Pins or Rhinestone Barrettes for a Festive Finish
To complete your messy updo, add some sparkle with glitter pins or rhinestone barrettes. These accessories add the perfect festive touch, elevating the overall look. Pin a rhinestone barrette on one side of the updo or scatter glitter pins throughout the bun to create a dazzling effect.
Pro Tip: How to Make the Updo Look Intentionally Undone, Not Too Messy
The key to the perfect messy updo is balance. While you want it to look effortless, you also want it to appear intentionally undone. Focus on keeping the twists and pins secure enough to hold the shape without looking too controlled. Avoid over-tugging or creating too much volume, which could make it look unkempt rather than chic. A light mist of hairspray will help hold the shape without making it stiff.
9. Quick Touch-Up Tips to Maintain Sparkling Holiday Hair
Holiday parties can last for hours, and keeping your hairstyle looking fresh and glamorous throughout the night requires a little extra effort. Whether you’re rocking sleek waves, a voluminous updo, or a festive braid, these quick touch-up tips will help you maintain your sparkling holiday hair from start to finish.
How to Keep Your Holiday Hairstyle Intact During Long Celebrations
The key to long-lasting holiday hair is proper preparation. Start with a strong styling foundation—use heat protectants before curling or straightening and finish with a lightweight, flexible-hold hairspray. If you’re wearing an updo or braid, secure it with hidden bobby pins and a spritz of setting spray to keep everything in place.
Must-Have Products: Texturizing Sprays, Dry Shampoo, and Shine Serums for Extra Glam
Texturizing Spray: Keeps curls bouncy and adds volume to flat styles. Spritz a little at the roots and tousle your hair for an instant refresh.
Dry Shampoo: Perfect for absorbing excess oil and reviving limp strands after hours of dancing or socializing. Simply spray at the roots, wait a few seconds, and fluff your hair for a fresh boost.
Shine Serum: A tiny drop of shine serum can smooth flyaways and give your hair a glossy, polished finish. Apply sparingly to avoid greasiness.
Simple Ways to Freshen Up Your Look After a Few Hours
If your curls start to fall or your ponytail loses its lift, a few easy touch-ups can bring your style back to life. Flip your head upside down and run your fingers through your roots for instant volume. For waves or curls, twist sections of hair around your fingers or use a curling iron on just a few front pieces to revive the shape. If you’re wearing an updo, gently pull out a few face-framing strands for a softer, refreshed look.
How to Avoid Frizz and Flyaways for a Sleek, Polished Style
Frizz can be a major concern, especially in winter weather. To keep flyaways under control, apply a small amount of hairspray to a clean mascara wand or toothbrush and lightly smooth down any unruly strands. If humidity is a concern, an anti-frizz serum or smoothing cream can help tame frizz while keeping your hair sleek and shiny.
By keeping a few key products in your bag and using these quick touch-up tricks, you can maintain your holiday hairstyle effortlessly and shine all night long.
10. Conclusion: Shine Bright This Holiday Season with Sparkling Hair
The holiday season is the perfect time to experiment with glamorous, sparkling hairstyles that make a statement. From soft Hollywood waves to sleek ponytails and romantic updos, there’s a festive style for every occasion. Whether you’re aiming for vintage-inspired pin-up glam or a chic, messy bun, these styles ensure you’ll turn heads all night.
Hair extensions are a game-changer when it comes to achieving a stunning holiday look. They add volume, length, and shine, helping you create the perfect party-ready hairstyle. With the right extensions, you can easily transform your look from everyday to extraordinary, ensuring your hair stays full, gorgeous, and photo-ready throughout your celebrations.
Ready to elevate your holiday hairstyle? Explore Fabulive’s premium hair extensions for the perfect finishing touch and enjoy a flawless, festive look this season.